Overview
- Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, was confirmed in Portugal’s 27‑man World Cup squad in a selection announced on Tuesday and FIFA president Gianni Infantino publicly praised the milestone of a potential sixth tournament appearance.
- Coach Roberto Martínez said Ronaldo will receive no special treatment and will face the same selection demands as teammates while serving as captain.
- Ronaldo has remained Portugal’s leading scorer under Martínez, contributing 25 goals in 30 appearances for the manager and keeping a prominent role in the squad’s plans.
- Portugal’s preparations include a training camp beginning June 1 and friendlies on June 6 and June 10, with Group K fixtures starting on June 17 and reporting conflicted on whether the opening opponent is the Republic of Congo or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Reports credit biometric tests and an extensive personal recovery program with extending Ronaldo’s career but describe the WHOOP result and the roughly $1 million annual regimen as unofficial and not fully verified; his presence could shape Portugal’s minutes management and leadership dynamics for younger players.